Dad

Dad
I remember when you took my hand
Led me across the Filey sand.
Jumping waves in the sea
"Abra-cad-debra" will always stay with me.
My handsome Dad was all I knew
When my thoughts were young and few.
Your cool blue eyes and vampire grin
You loved the evening sun on your skin
I remember once I ran away to the sea
But you came and rescued me.
Katy's soapy mouth made us laugh out loud
But her nurses uniform made you proud
Walking Helen down the aisle
You did with a certain panache and style.
I remember the stories of the war
That we'd always heard before
War defined you a brave man
You always encouraged "do what you can."
I remember the Gnome and Marley's Ghost
Christmas carols and cards to post.
Sharpening the carving knives so fast
And saving the wishbone to the last.
I remember Colette with 'Happy' on your knee
And gathering grandkids up for tea.
These later years have been unkind
Confusion has beset your mind.
So many memories lost in you
Flood my life and as I grew.
I know that people often say -
Their "Dad is best" - becomes cliche
But our family always knew
That men like you are all too few.


C J Nash 2016